AFC Secretary-General Datuk Seri Windsor Paul John confirmed that the investigation into Malaysia originated from a formal complaint from Vietnam. He shared: “The reason is due to a protest from Vietnam.”
AFC confirms Vietnam has filed a complaint regarding Malaysia's alleged falsification of documents for 7 naturalized players (Photo: FAM).
This is the first time we have received information directly from FIFA. The AFC is then awaiting the results of the investigation conducted by FIFA. Normally, this process takes place between the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) and FIFA.
Subsequently, we received notification of the initial penalty imposed on FAM regarding the use of seven players deemed ineligible or unqualified. This information was conveyed to us after the match between Malaysia and Vietnam.”
Windsor Paul John confirmed that the AFC has clarified the procedures leading to the opening of an investigation into the seven naturalized Malaysian players. He stated that the AFC received information from FIFA because the aforementioned tournament is part of the AFC's competition system, specifically the 2027 Asian Cup qualifiers.
He stated: "We were informed by FIFA because this is an AFC tournament. After the match between Malaysia and Vietnam, FIFA began reviewing the eligibility of all seven players."
Recently, the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) temporarily lifted the 12-month ban on seven naturalized Malaysian players until a final ruling is issued.
Malaysia faces the risk of being handed a forfeit loss against Vietnam (Photo: AFC).
Commenting on Malaysia's chances of winning the case, Windsor Paul John said: “FAM has applied for a stay order and CAS has approved it. This shows that Malaysia still has hope. In all my time working at AFC, this is the first time a case has received such a stay order. There has never been a precedent before.”
Historically, in AFC cases, every request for postponement has been rejected. There has been no precedent for it being approved. From our experience at the AFC, the chances at this point can be considered 50-50.”
According to the plan, CAS will hold a live hearing on February 26th regarding the case of the seven naturalized players. The final ruling will be announced at a later date.
Source: https://dantri.com.vn/the-thao/afc-xac-nhan-ldbd-viet-nam-gui-don-to-cao-malaysia-nhap-tich-gian-lan-20260211115229102.htm
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